Best Summer Attractions for Families

When Labor Day rolls around, everyone knows that Fall is near. With the kids back in school and the adults behind their desks until Thanksgiving, making sure you have one last getaway is crucial. If you’re like most people, you’re on a tight budget and have limited time, so your trip has to be inexpensive and convenient. With that in mind, here are some of the best Summer attractions for families before Autumn arrives on September 23:

Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix, Arizona

Acting as a Hall-of-Fame-like collection for the instruments humans have created across cultures and throughout history, this vibrant and expansive space holds dozens of pieces from all over the world. Music plays over wireless hotspots, giving guests a taste of the sounds produced by what their eyes behold. And, if that’s not enough, get tickets for one of the music festivals – everyone from local hip-hop artists to luminaries like jazz legend Ahmad Jamal perform in the theater.

Pirate and Treasure Museum, St. Augustine, Florida

There’s only one spot in the entire world to see a real treasure chest – without becoming a pirate yourself, that is! Housing a collection of antique artifacts, like the aforementioned trunk Captain Thomas Tew carried his valuables in, and modern collectibles connected with the nautical marauders, this is a whimsical journey everyone will enjoy.

Citygarden, St. Louis, Missouri

After a visit to the top of the Gateway Arch, enjoy some playtime at this creative playground in downtown St. Louis. Disguised as a sculpture garden, it features two dozen works of art fit for climbing on and sliding down.

Natural History Museum, Los Angeles, California

Though world-renowned for its displays, the Los Angeles County Natural History Museum has outdone itself with the addition of a new Dinosaur Hall. Exhibits are spread across two floors surrounding an open atrium filled with 17 skeletons that is dominated by two Tyrannosaurus rex specimens, allowing visitors the feel of being the vicious meat-eater’s next meal.

NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte, North Carolina

Filled with artifacts and exhibits spanning several decades of America’s fastest-growing sporting passion, you’ll find plenty to do and see here. The hall features 15 simulators to give you the feel of hitting the banked corners of your favorite raceway at close to 200 miles per hour.

Lincoln Center, New York

Families with an interest in the arts will love a tour of the United States’ unofficial center for music and dance. In addition to slipping behind the scenes at the Metropolitan Opera House or Alice Tully Hall, you can spread out for a picnic on the expansive new Illumination Lawn atop the restaurant – it’s like a city park three stories above the street!